8Bit/Digi

Like so many, I was wowed with joy when the official trailer for Godzilla vs. Kong was made available. After watching it for probably the X-th time, I noticed the movies tribute to Hideaki Anno. However; I was surprised that not many have noticed this homage.

If one is familiar with his work then it’s easy to spot but there so much to this tribute. This is a look at how one scene in Godzilla vs Kong is a subtle tribute to the work of Hideaki Anno. Fair warning, there are going to be some minor spoilers.

A Tribute to a Legend

Most people know Hideaki Anno for creating Neon Genesis Evangelion along with directing the Rebuild of Evangelion films. So at first glance it looks like this is a tribute to the iconic series.

The battle between Kong and Godzilla is very similar to Episode 8: “Asuka Arrives in Japan” of Neon Genesis Evangelion. To recap: we are introduced to Asuka Langley Soryu while EVA Unit 02 is being escorted by the Pacific Fleet. However, they are attacked by Gaghiel (the Sixth Angle). To defeat the Angle and save the fleet, Asuka and Shinji need to work together. The battle has EVA Unit 02 fighting the Gaghiel on top of an aircraft carrier and numerous battleships.

While this could just be a coincidence, one also has to remember that Anno also directed Godzilla Resurgence. It was released back in 2016 to critical and commercial success. It would win numerous awards and became one of the highest grossing Japanese film of all time. Hence; having Godzilla fight Kong on the deck of an aircraft carrier is a clear tribute to the work of Hideaki Anno.

A Cruel Godzilla’s Thesis

Neon Genesis Evangelion follows the story of Shinji who has to pilot an Evangelion to combat against creatures dubbed “Angels”. The series has been highly praised for deconstructing the mecha genre while also exploring complex themes of individuality and personal choice.

Godzilla vs. Kong will be the fourth film in the MonsterVerse series. The film will premier in theaters and HBO Max on March 31st. This will also be the first time the two icons have been in a feature film together since King Kong vs. Godzilla (released in 1962).

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